Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Fri 17 April 2026 18:10, UK

Sean Longstaff should clear out his Leeds United dressing room if he doesn’t start against Wolves on Saturday.

Daniel Farke could go nine points clear of the relegation zone with a win at Elland Road on 18 April, but it remains to be seen whether he will count on the former Newcastle United midfielder to do so.

Ao Tanaka started against Manchester United in Anton Stach’s absence, but the Japan international may also have picked up a knock at Old Trafford in the 2-1 victory.

The German manager can possibly be ruthless with Longstaff and pick Ilia Gruev to partner Ethan Ampadu on Wolves’ trip to West Yorkshire, which will be a clear indication of where the Englishman stands ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Longstaff may opt to leave Elland Road as he finds himself at a crossroads, having not started an English top-flight game since 23 November against Aston Villa.

Daniel Farke about to make massive mistake at Leeds United

Farke’s reluctance to rely on Longstaff could potentially lead to his departure from Leeds, but other players are sailing in the same boat.

Tanaka, who has been key to the Whites’ success, could likely think about looking for pastures new after his diminishing influence at Elland Road this season.

The 27-year-old is competing with Anton Stach in the starting lineup, and while the Germany international has been exceptional, the former Fortuna Dusseldorf ace deserves better treatment.

Tanaka showed his importance in the squad at Old Trafford and supporters in LS11 will hope the German manager doesn’t sanction his sale in the summer.

Paraag Marathe has tough decisions to make at Elland Road

Paraag Marathe and 49ers Enterprises were contemplating Farke’s sacking at Leeds last summer, but their faith in him is about to pay off.

The Whites are considered favourites to avoid Premier League relegation this season and it would make sense to back the German manager financially in the next transfer window.

It could still be a tough decision for Marathe, who may want to bring in a different head coach to re-establish the West Yorkshire outfit in the English top flight.

Several stars will also be looking over their shoulders as fans hope for quality reinforcements at Elland Road, leaving the hierarchy with a list of players looking for a way out soon.